5 Myths About ADHD and The Truth From Someone With ADHD

You all know that I’m passionate about sharing how ADHD can be a superpower, but a lot of people don’t see it that way. There are a lot of stereotypes and myths about ADHD out there that I want to debunk today. Unfortunately, I’ve experienced all of these, whether indirectly or by being told to my face. Let’s clear the air and talk about ADHD myths and facts.

Myth #1. ADHD isn’t real.

I come from a Middle Eastern family, and we all have stereotypical viewpoints on things, such as Windex cleans everything. One common thing I’ve heard is that ADHD isn’t real, and it’s just an excuse for bad behavior. That is a myth. ADHD is very much real. It’s diagnosable and a mental condition that has been thoroughly studied.

Myth #2. Poor parenting style gives kids ADHD.

People believe that kids have ADHD because they’re raised in an environment that is causing these behaviors and symptoms. There are studies that prove this is a misconception. Homes that aren’t tidy or organized can worsen ADHD symptoms. It’s very hard to concentrate and focus in environments like this, but homes and parenting styles don’t cause ADHD.

Myth #3. Everyone with this disorder has hyperactivity.

There are many myths about ADHD, including the misconception that everyone with ADHD is super hyper. Hyperactivity is an ADHD symptom, but it isn’t guaranteed when someone is diagnosed with ADHD. Just because someone is bouncy or hyper doesn’t mean they have ADHD. The main tell of ADHD is a lack of focus and retaining and absorbing information. Our brain receptors and processors work differently.

Myth #4. People with the disorder are lazy.

It’s quite the opposite! People with ADHD are some of the most driven individuals I’ve ever met in my life. They know what it’s like to fail and start again, over and over and over. 

I’ve talked about this before, but if you never let your child fail, they aren’t going to succeed as they get older because you’ve always done everything for them. People with ADHD frequently fail at things like forgetting where something is or leaving a task unfinished. But they know how to get back up and try again after they fail, which makes them extremely motivated and determined, not lazy!

Myth #5. Medications are the only treatment for ADHD.

This is one of the most common myths about ADHD. Medication is ONE option to mitigate ADHD symptoms, but it isn’t the only way. I’ve shared this story before in episode #4 – when I was first diagnosed with ADHD, I was put on a very mild dose of ADHD medication. It did help me focus more, but it didn’t help me focus on the right things. I had so many negative side effects that honestly made my ADHD symptoms worse in other ways.

So, I stopped taking the medication and tried to mitigate my symptoms holistically. I started working out every morning. I established routines at home. I decluttered my home to reduce distractions. I put my calendar and reminders on my phone instead of on paper. I established boundaries with friends and family. I did all this to help me turn my ADHD symptoms into a superpower instead of a condition to deal with.

Note: I am not a doctor, and this is not medical advice. Please consult a professional before starting or stopping medication.

I’ve learned a lot from my experience growing up and living with ADHD. As an ADHD coach, I help other people with the behavioral side of managing their ADHD. I analyze if they have healthy routines, habits, lifestyles, and diets and areas where they can improve. We put a plan together and have regular check-ins to see the progress they’re making and if any adjustments are needed. I love what I do!

If you or someone you know could benefit from ADHD coaching, let’s talk! I’m currently accepting new clients of all ages who want to manage their ADHD holistically. I’m your girl! Schedule a free discovery call to get started.

Related Episodes:

Episode 4: How I Manage ADHD Without Medication

Episode 13: Home Habits I Live By for a Happy and Healthy Home

Episode 21: A Tailored Daily Routine at Home for ADHD Adults to Boost Focus

Episode 27: How to Deal with ADHD as a Parent